Miniature golf is a summer rite of passage for families. When the weather gets warm and the days are sunny, heading out to the local mini golf course is a perfect way to spend a few hours.

Mini golf is challenging enough to keep your older kids (and yourself) interested, there's enough opportunity for a change of scenery to occupy your little kids, and even your tiny ones can play along with you — even if all they want to do is hold a golf ball in each hand and occasionally walk up to the hole to make a hole-in-one (And, yes, I'm speaking from personal experience on all of this).

There are plenty of mini golf courses in the Milwaukee area to satisfy your family's golfing urges this spring, summer and even fall, and several of them have a few extra-cool factors to entertain your family. Check out these courses to see which cool factor appeals most to you and your kids.

Keep in mind: Hours at each of these courses is dependent upon weather. Check the course's website or call ahead for hours.

America's Action Territory Family Fun Park

Cool factor: There are three separate mini golf courses at this family entertainment center. Let your kids choose which one looks most interesting (or which one is least crowded). Or choose based on skill level — the Wisconsin course is the easiest, followed by the western course and the expert course.

Baehmann's Golf and Games

Cool factor: Sure, there's mini golf here, but have you heard of foot golf? It's a combination of golf and soccer — players kick the soccer ball from from the tee and attempt to get the ball in a cup with their feet like regular golf. If you have a soccer player (or a whole team), it's suggested as a great way to practice.

Cool factor: If your kids want to take a treat break following the game, the concessions stand boasts a range of local favorites. Think Cedar Crest ice cream, Sprecher root beer and Johnsonville brats.

Cool factor: You can schedule your own mini golf tournament! It's a great idea for a family reunion or birthday party. Plus, you can even schedule your party/tournament for before normal operating hours, so there's no need to share the greens.